Huawei HG231f User manual

HUAWEI HG231f Wireless-N Router Wireless-N
Router
User Guide
HUAWEI TECHNOLOGIES CO., LTD.

HUAWEI HG231f Wireless-N Router
V100R001
User Guide
Issue 01
Date 2010-04-01
Part Number 202201
Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. provides customers with comprehensive technical
support and service. For any assistance, please contact our local office or company
headquarters.
Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.
Address: Huawei Industrial Base
Bantian, Longgang
Shenzhen 518129
People's Republic of China
Website: http://www.huaweidevice.com
Email: [email protected]

Copyright © Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. 2010. All rights reserved.
No part of this document may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any
means without prior written consent of Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.
The product described in this manual may include copyrighted software of Huawei
Technologies Co., Ltd and possible licensors. Customers shall not in any manner
reproduce, distribute, modify, decompile, disassemble, decrypt, extract, reverse
engineer, lease, assign, or sublicense the said software, unless such restrictions are
prohibited by applicable laws or such actions are approved by respective copyright
holders under licenses.
Trademarks and Permissions
, , and are trademarks or registered trademarks of Huawei
Technologies Co., Ltd.
Other trademarks, product, service and company names mentioned are the property
of their respective owners.
Notice
Some features of the product and its accessories described herein rely on the
software installed, capacities and settings of local network, and may not be activated
or may be limited by local network operators or network service providers. Thus the
descriptions herein may not exactly match the product or its accessories you
purchase.
Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd reserves the right to change or modify any information
or specifications contained in this manual without prior notice or obligation.
NO WARRANTY
THE CONTENTS OF THIS MANUAL ARE PROVIDED “AS IS”. EXCEPT AS
REQUIRED BY APPLICABLE LAWS, NO WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EITHER
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED
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PURPOSE, ARE MADE IN RELATION TO THE ACCURACY, RELIABILITY OR
CONTENTS OF THIS MANUAL.
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SHALL HUAWEI TECHNOLOGIES CO., LTD BE LIABLE FOR ANY SPECIAL,
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Import and Export Regulations
Customers shall comply with all applicable export or import laws and regulations and
will obtain all necessary governmental permits and licenses in order to export,
re-export or import the product mentioned in this manual including the software and
technical data therein.

HUAWEI HG231f Wireless-N Router
User Guide Contents
Issue 01 (2010-04-01) i
Contents
About This Document ............................................................................................... 1
1 Warnings and Precautions .................................................................................. 1-1
2 Product Overview ................................................................................................. 2-1
2.1 Product Features.......................................................................................................... 2-1
2.2 Hardware..................................................................................................................... 2-2
2.2.1 Interfaces and Buttons..................................................................................... 2-2
2.2.2 Indicators......................................................................................................... 2-2
3 Hardware Installation .......................................................................................... 3-1
3.1 Selecting a Position for the Router.............................................................................. 3-1
3.2 Knowing Cable Connections....................................................................................... 3-1
3.3 Powering On the Router.............................................................................................. 3-2
3.4 Installing the Router on an ADSL Broadband Network .............................................. 3-3
3.5 Installing the Router on a CATV Broadband Network................................................ 3-6
3.6 Installing the Router on a Community Broadband Network ....................................... 3-7
4 Configuration of Internet Access Parameters.................................................. 4-1
4.1 Logging In to the Web-Based Configuration Utility ................................................... 4-1
4.2 Using the Setup Wizard............................................................................................... 4-1
5 Configuration of WLAN Parameters................................................................. 5-1
5.1 Setting Up a Wireless Connection Through the WPS Button...................................... 5-1
5.2 Setting Up a Wireless Connection Through the AP PIN Mode................................... 5-1
5.3 Setting Up a Wireless Connection Manually............................................................... 5-2
6 Configuring Frequently Used Functions.......................................................... 6-1
6.1 Configuring Multiple PCs to Access the Internet Simultaneously .............................. 6-1
6.2 Enabling or Disabling the WLAN Function................................................................ 6-2
6.3 Improving the Security of a WLAN ............................................................................ 6-2
6.3.1 Hiding the Name of a WLAN ......................................................................... 6-2
6.3.2 Changing the Name of a WLAN..................................................................... 6-3
6.3.3 Using Secure Encryption................................................................................. 6-4
6.3.4 Allowing Only Specified PCs to Be Connected to a WLAN .......................... 6-5
6.4 Controlling the Internet Access Rights of PCs ............................................................ 6-7

Contents
HUAWEI HG231f Wireless-N Router
User Guide
ii Issue 01 (2010-04-01)
6.5 Prohibiting PCs from Accessing Specified Web Sites ................................................ 6-9
6.6 Setting the Available Bandwidth of a PC.................................................................. 6-10
6.7 Preventing Attacks on the Internet ............................................................................ 6-11
6.8 Removing the Restriction Caused by the Binding of the Internet Access Account to the
MAC Address ................................................................................................................. 6-14
6.9 Allowing Internet Users to Access an Internal Resource Server ............................... 6-15
6.10 Expanding the Coverage of a WLAN...................................................................... 6-17
7 Maintenance Guide .............................................................................................. 7-1
7.1 Changing the Administrator Password of the Web-based Configuration Utility......... 7-1
7.2 Changing the Login IP Address of the Web-based Configuration Utility ................... 7-2
7.3 Backing Up or Importing a Configuration File ........................................................... 7-2
7.4 Restoring Default Settings........................................................................................... 7-3
7.5 Upgrading Software .................................................................................................... 7-4
8 FAQs........................................................................................................................ 8-1
A Technical Specifications....................................................................................A-1
B Default Settings................................................................................................... B-1
C Acronyms or Abbreviations.............................................................................. C-1

HUAWEI HG231f Wireless-N Router
User Guide Figures
Issue 01 (2010-04-01) iii
Figures
Figure 3-1 Cable connections between the router and other devices ................................ 3-2
Figure 3-2 Cable connections of an ADSL broadband network before the router is installed
on the network ......................................................................................................... 3-4
Figure 3-3 Cable connections of an ADSL broadband network after the router is installed on
the network .............................................................................................................. 3-5
Figure 3-4 Cable connections of a CATV broadband network before the router is installed on
the network .............................................................................................................. 3-6
Figure 3-5 Cable connections of a CATV broadband network after the router is installed on
the network .............................................................................................................. 3-7
Figure 3-6 Cable connection of a community broadband network before the router is
installed on the network ........................................................................................... 3-8
Figure 3-7 Cable connections of a community broadband network after the router is installed
on the network ......................................................................................................... 3-8
Figure 6-1 MAC address cloning ................................................................................... 6-14

HUAWEI HG231f Wireless-N Router
User Guide Tables
Issue 01 (2010-04-01) v
Tables
Table 2-1 Interfaces and buttons of the router................................................................... 2-2
Table 2-2 Indicators of the router...................................................................................... 2-3
Table 3-1 Indicators that turn on after the router is powered on ....................................... 3-2
Table 6-1 Rules for setting the password used for accessing a WLAN............................. 6-5
Table 6-2 Protective effects of the preset protective levels of the firewall...................... 6-11
Table 6-3 WDS working modes...................................................................................... 6-17

HUAWEI HG231f Wireless-N Router
User Guide About This Document
Issue 01 (2010-04-01) 1
About This Document
Purpose
This document describes the functions, features, and configuration methods of the
HUAWEI HG231f Wireless-N Router (hereinafter referred to as the router).
By reading this document, you can understand the functions and features of the router
and the procedures for installing and configuring the router.
Related Versions
The following table lists the product versions related to this document.
Product Name Version
HG231f V100R001
Intended Audience
This document is intended for small office or home office (SOHO) users.
Conventions
Symbol Conventions
The symbols that may be found in this document are defined as follows.
Symbol Description
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which if
not avoided, could result in equipment damage, data
loss, performance degradation, or unexpected results.
Indicates a tip that may help you solve a problem or
save time.
Provides additional information to emphasize or
supplement important points of the main text.

About This Document
HUAWEI HG231f Wireless-N Router
User Guide
2 Issue 01 (2010-04-01)
General Conventions
The general conventions that may be found in this document are defined as follows.
Convention Description
Times New Roman Normal paragraphs are in Times New Roman.
Boldface Names of files, directories, folders, and users are in
boldface. For example, log in as user root.
Italic Book titles are in italics.
Courier New Examples of information displayed on the screen are
in Courier New.
GUI Conventions
The GUI conventions that may be found in this document are defined as follows.
Convention Description
Boldface Buttons, menus, parameters, tabs, windows, and
dialog titles are in boldface. For example, click OK.
> Multi-level menus are in boldface and separated by
the ">" signs. For example, choose File > Create >
Folder.
Keyboard Operations
The keyboard operations that may be found in this document are defined as follows.
Format Description
Key Press the key. For example, press Enter and press
Tab.
Key 1+Key 2 Press the keys concurrently. For example, pressing
Ctrl+Alt+Ameans the three keys should be pressed
concurrently.
Key 1, Key 2 Press the keys in turn. For example, pressing Alt, A
means the two keys should be pressed in turn.
Mouse Operations
The mouse operations that may be found in this document are defined as follows.

HUAWEI HG231f Wireless-N Router
User Guide About This Document
Issue 01 (2010-04-01) 3
Action Description
Click Select and release the primary mouse button without
moving the pointer.
Double-click Press the primary mouse button twice continuously
and quickly without moving the pointer.

HUAWEI HG231f Wireless-N Router
User Guide 1 Warnings and Precautions
Issue 01 (2010-04-01) 1-1
1 Warnings and Precautions
To use the device properly and safely, read these warnings and precautions carefully
and strictly observe them during operation. Unless otherwise specified, the term
rs to the device and its accessories.
Basic R
zWhen using the device, observe all applicable laws and regulations and respect the
Enviro
z
ring
appliances that generate strong magnetic or
zevice in a cool and well-ventilated indoor area. Do not expose the device
z
liquid enters the device, stop using the device immediately, power it
zDuring thunderstorms, power off the device, and then remove all the cables
connected to it to prevent it from getting damaged due to lightning strikes.
"device" refe
equirements
zDuring storage, transportation, and operation of the device, keep it dry and prevent it
from colliding with other objects.
zDo not dismantle the device. In case of any fault, contact an authorized service center
for assistance or repair.
zWithout authorization, no organization or individual can change the mechanical,
safety, or performance design of the device.
legal rights of other people.
nmental Requirements for Using the Device
Before connecting and disconnecting cables, stop using the device, and then
disconnect it from the power supply. Ensure that your hands are dry du
operation.
zKeep the device far from sources of heat and fire, such as a heater or a candle.
zKeep the device far from electronic
electric fields, such as a microwave oven or a refrigerator.
zPlace the device on a stable surface.
Place the d
to direct sunlight. Use the device in an area with a temperature ranging from 0°C to
40°C.
zDo not block the openings on the device with any object. Reserve a minimum space
of 10 cm around the device for heat dissipation.
Do not place any object (such as a candle or a water container) on the device. If any
foreign object or
off, remove all the cables connected to it, and then contact an authorized service
center.

1 Warnings and Precautions
HUAWEI HG231f Wireless-N Router
User Guide
1-2 Issue 01 (2010-04-01)
Precautions for Using Wireless Devices
zWhen using the device, ensure that the antenna of the device is at least 20 cm away
from all persons.
zDo not use the device where using wireless devices is prohibited or may cause
interference or danger.
zThe radio waves generated by the device may interfere with the operation of
electronic medical devices. If you are using any electrical medical device, contact its
manufacturer for the restrictions on the use of the device.
zDo not take the device into operating rooms, intensive care units (ICUs), or coronary
care units (CCUs).
Areas with Inflammables and Explosives
zDo not use the device where inflammables or explosives are stored, for example, in a
gas station, oil depot, or chemical plant. Otherwise, explosions or fires may occur. In
addition, follow the instructions indicated in text or symbols.
zDo not store or transport the device in the same box as inflammable liquids, gases, or
explosives.
Accessory Requirements
zUse only the accessories supplied or authorized by the device manufacturer.
Otherwise, the performance of the device may get affected, the warranty for the
device or the laws and regulations related to telecommunications terminals may
become null and void, or an injury may occur.
zDo not use the power adapter if its cable is damaged. Otherwise, electric shocks or
fires may occur.
zEnsure that the power adapter meets the specifications indicated on the device
nameplate.
zEnsure that the power adapter meets the requirements of Clause 2.5 in
IEC60950-1/EN60950-1 and it is tested and approved according to national or local
standards.
Safety of Children
Keep the device and its accessories out of the reach of children. Otherwise, they may
damage the device and its accessories by mistake, or they may swallow the small
components of the device, causing suffocation or other dangerous situations.
Maintenance
zIf the device is not used for a long time, power it off, and then remove all the cables
connected to it.
zIf any exception occurs, for example, if the device emits any smoke or unusual sound
or smell, stop using the device immediately, power it off, remove all the cables
connected to it, and then contact an authorized service center.

HUAWEI HG231f Wireless-N Router
User Guide 1 Warnings and Precautions
Issue 01 (2010-04-01) 1-3
zDo not trample, pull, or overbend any cable. Otherwise, the cable may get damaged,
causing malfunction of the device.
zBefore cleaning the device, stop using it, power it off, and then remove all the cables
connected to it.
zUse a clean, soft, and dry cloth to clean the device shell. Do not use any cleaning
agent or spray to clean the device shell.

HUAWEI HG231f Wireless-N Router
User Guide 2 Product Overview
Issue 01 (2010-04-01) 2-1
2 Product Overview
2.1 Pr
arious home
Protocol (IP) set-top
nternet. It supports the following functions:
z
a with extra strong penetration
e Wi-Fi Protected
ution System (WDS) through which a WLAN can be expanded
zrnet interface connected to a wide area
z
ol (RIP) version 1, RIP version 2, and Static Routing
oduct Features
The router is a network access device designed for home users and small or home office
(SOHO) users. It supports the wireless local area network (WLAN) function on the user
side and provides four Ethernet interfaces through which you can connect v
as personal computers (PCs) and Internet
terminal devices, such
boxes (STBs), to the I
WLAN function
−High-performance built-in antenn
−Wireless data rate of 150 Mbit/s
−Compatibility with Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
802.11b, 802.11g, and 802.11n
−Establishment of a secure wireless connection by pressing th
Setup (WPS) button
−Easy and secure configuration and management of a WLAN
−64-bit and 128-bit Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) encryption
−Security modes of Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA and WPA2) and hybrid
cryptosystem
−Wireless Distrib
−Low radiation
−Certification by the Wi-Fi Alliance
zIntegration of the functions of wireless access points (APs), routers, four-port
switches, and firewalls
zWLAN standards (IEEE 802.11b, 802.11g, and 802.11n) and Ethernet standard
(IEEE 802.3u)
One 10/100 Mbit/s adaptive uplink Ethe
network (WAN) and four 10/100 Mbit/s adaptive downlink Ethernet interfaces
connected to a local area network (LAN)
Multiple networking applications, such as accessing a broadband network in
Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet (PPPoE) dial-up mode, obtaining an IP
address through the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), and configuring
a static IP address
zRouting Information Protoc
Protocol
zIP quality of service (QoS)

2 Product Overview
HUAWEI HG231f Wireless-N Router
User Guide
2-2 Issue 01 (2010-04-01)
-to-peer
(P2P) software
iguration through a Web-based configuration utility
2.2.1 Interfaces and Buttons
Table 2-1 describes the interfaces and buttons of the router.
Table 2-1 uttons of
zTraffic control through which you can manage the downloading rate of peer
zLocal and remote conf
2.2 Hardware
Interfaces and b the router
Interface or Button Description
POWER In
N
dapter to the
terface used to connect the power adapter to the router.
OTE
To power on the router, connect the power a
POWER interface of the router and then to a power socket.
Then supply the power socket with electricity.
RESET s of the router, power on the
press and hold the RESET button for at least 3s,
an
N
caution.
To restore the factory setting
router,
d then release the button.
OTE
When the factory settings are restored, your custom data is
lost. Therefore, use the RESET button with
LAN1–LAN4 Ethernet interfaces used to connect Ethernet devices,
such as PCs and switches, to the router.
WAN terface used to connect Ethernet devices that
s modems and
Ethernet in
provide Internet access interfaces, such a
switches.
WPS Button used to enable the WPS function.
WPS is a standard for easy and secure establishment of a WLAN. Through the WPS function,
WLAN on your wireless terminal devices securely without entering the name
ord of the WLAN.
2.2.2 In
Table 2-2 describes the indicators of the router.
you can access a
and passw
dicators

HUAWEI HG231f Wireless-N Router
User Guide 2 Product Overview
Issue 01 (2010-04-01) 2-3
Ticator rouable 2-2 Ind s of the ter
Indicator Color Status Indicates
White On The router is powered on.POWER
- Off The router is powered off.
White Blinking A connection is set up between the
Internet and the WAN interface of the
router and data is being transmitted on the
WAN interface.
White On A connection is set up between the
Internet and the WAN interface of the
router, but no data is being transmitted on
the WAN interface.
Orange On
m) through a
A physical connection is set up between
the WAN interface of the router and the
Ethernet interface of an Ethernet device
(such as an ADSL mode
network cable, but the router is not
connected to the Internet.
INTERNET
- Off
No network cable is connected to the
WAN interface of the router, or the router
is powered off.
White Blinking The WLAN function is enabled and data
is being transmitted on the WLAN.
White On but no
The WLAN function is enabled,
data is being transmitted on the WLAN.
WLAN
- Off The WLAN function is disabled.
White Blinking
PC on which a wireless network
installed) through the WPS
fu
The router is attempting to set up a
wireless connection with a wireless client
(such as a
adapter is
nction.
NOTE
This state lasts no more than two minutes.
White On ection is set up between
er and a wireless client through the
W
A wireless conn
the rout
PS function.
NOTE
This state lasts 300s.
WPS
- Off The WPS function is disabled.

2 Product Overview
HUAWEI HG231f Wireless-N Router
User Guide
2-4 Issue 01 (2010-04-01)
Indicator Color Status Indicates
White Blinking A connection is set up between the
corresponding LAN interface of the router
and an Ethernet device (such as a PC)
through a network cable and data is being
transmitted.
White On
)
through a network cable, but no data is
being transmitted.
A connection is set up between the
corresponding LAN interface of the router
and an Ethernet device (such as a PC
LAN1–LAN4
No connection is set up between the
corresponding LAN interface of the router
and an Ethernet device (such as a PC).
- Off
NOTE
ADSL = asymmetrical digital subscriber line

HUAWEI HG231f Wireless-N Router
User Guide 3 Hardware Installation
Issue 01 (2010-04-01) 3-1
3 Hardware Installation
3.1 Se
zsure that no obstacle, such as a cement or
zEnsure that the router and your PC are far from the electric appliances (such as a
microwave oven) that generate strong magnetic or electric fields.
3.2 Kn
Figure 3-1 shows the cable connections between the router and other devices.
lecting a Position for the Router
Place the router in a stable and well-ventilated place and do not expose it to direct
sunlight, as described in chapter 1 "Warnings and Precaution." If you want to use the
WLAN function of the router, you also need to pay attention to the following precautions
for a better performance of the WLAN:
Place the router in an open space and en
wooden wall, exists between your PC and the router. Otherwise, the transmission of
radio signals on the WLAN is affected.
owing Cable Connections